The Official Bedford County Sheriff's Office shoulder patch, or "blaze," is now centered around the Official County Seal, which was based upon the coat of arms of John Russell, the Fourth Duke of Bedford (b. 30 Sep. 1710 -- d. 15 Jan. 1771), who served as Great Britain's Secretary of State.  The title "Duke" is Britain's highest rank of peerage dating to 1337.  A frieze of the Duke's coat of arms can be seen at the County Courthouse.  The current patch, below, dates to 1 January 1996, when Sheriff Mike Brown took office.  The old patch, pictured at left, was retired.
 
 
 

After winning the November 1995 election, Mike wanted a look for the Sheriff's Office that would reflect each deputy's commitment to upholding the law and protecting public safety.  He wanted a look that would reflect the proud tradition of the County and the Sheriff's Office that began in 1754.  So he called his friend and creative consultant Don Garlock, Jr., a Bedford County resident who had developed the campaign materials which helped to get him elected.  The new Sheriff's instructions were characteristically crisp and clear:  "Incorporate the County Seal and include this motto:  'Committed to Excellence.'"  Don went to work and donated the design to the BCSO.  The result has been proudly worn on the shoulders of Bedford County's deputies ever since.

Of the design, Sheriff Mike said, "The patch is one of the most beautiful and authoritative you will see on the shoulders of any law enforcement officer anywhere in the world.  Period.  And it's one of the most sought-after.  Don says it wasn't difficult to develop because the county seal is so beautiful, but I know better.  The beauty of his design lies in its simplicity; still, he incorporated everything I could have wanted in the new patch... and more.  It's a first-class... no, world-class patch, well-suited for the finest group of professionals I have ever worked with in more than 33 years in law enforcement.  Our men and women are proud to wear it, and rightly so."

Also produced was a "subdued" version of the BCSO patch, which is worn in tactical situations. The patch is not available for sale or trade to the general public. However, the Bedford County Sheriff's Office is always on the lookout for a few good men and women to join the team.  If you think you've got the right stuff, contact the BCSO to see if you can earn the right to wear the proudest patch in America.